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The self-proclaimed county of contrasts, a holiday in Dorset, in South West England, will allow you to combine a day exploring the Jurassic heritage coast with a slice of England’s history. Oh and a spot of sun-bathing too!

Of course, no beach holiday in Dorset is complete without the obligatory visit to Durdle Door near Lulworth. Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch which can be found on the beach of the Lulworth Estate. Whilst you’ll be fascinated looking up at the intricacies of the arch, take time to look down too – you might stumble across a fossil from the Jurassic period! Then turn from sandcastles to stone castles as you explore the eponymous castle located at Corfe. Partially demolished in 1646, watch out for the ‘murder holes’ and then climb to the top to enjoy breath-taking views across Purbeck.

In West Dorset you’ll find the Cerne Abbas Giant, an ancient testament to fertility carved into the hillside and located at the village of Piddletrenthide. Then travel north and spend a day discovering Shaftesbury. Stroll to the top of Gold Hill, made famous by the ‘Hovis’ advert, and lined by picturesque thatched cottages perched alongside cobblestones reminiscent of yesteryear.

In the surrounding area, stop off at Sherborne Castle which was built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594, and still houses the Wingfield Digby family. Successive generations have made their imprint on the house which is filled with splendid collections of art, furniture and porcelain. The extensive grounds are beautiful and were designed by ‘England’s Greatest Gardener’, Capability Brown.

We must mention the delectable Dorset food before we sign off, you’ll find a great selection of local food and drink at Cherry Picked Hampers. They deliver welcome hampers to many of our Dorset holiday cottages. And if fine dining is what you’re looking for, don’t forget that Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s River Cottage is located in Netherbury.